Coming Up Roses

September 26, 2016

Out of all of my style posts from this month, this look is by far my favorite! There's something about this rose-covered dress that helps me stand a little bit taller, talk a little louder, and command the attention I deserve.

Because of that, I've worn it out to my (sober) Tinder dates, client meetings, and anytime I'm feeling a little bit down. It looks phenomenal on which makes my insides feel equally so.

The dress (or should I say the moments when it's worn) also brings to mind a familiar quote that describes where I am in life:

“I want to be full on my own
I want to be so complete
I could light a whole city”

— Rupi Kaur

On that note, if you haven't picked up her book Milk and Honey do so now. I've underlined so many things and left notes for my future self in the borders.

"But Aileen! Where did you get this dress?!"

Glad you asked! I found this dress on Dezzal.com for under $80 (dress it's still stocked y'all!!) and would say it runs a smidge smaller than expected. I'm wearing the small but would be slightly uncomfortable if I ate four slices of pizza.

Oh! And make sure you browse their site because they have some CUTE things listed and it's all super affordable.

Next thing I wanted to point out are my booties from an Italian brand called OUIGAL. So many quirky, colorful, and on-trend shoes - there's something for everyone and they ship quickly. A few stateside retailers have definitely noticed their appeal so you'll be able to find them on Shopbop or Anthropologie IF their stock hasn't sold out yet.

Dress: Dezzal Boots: Ouigal Bangles: The Sak Rings: Assorted Earrings: Links of London Necklace: Athra Luxe + Baublebar Purse: Shana Luther Eyebrow Pencil: Billion Dollar Brow Pencil Lipgloss: Riot via Lime Crime

One last thing before I sign off! Ever since I discovered the power of a strong brow I've been reviewing and testing a few brands and products. Let's be honest everyone swears they have the best in the game but only a few can back it up.

I was given Billion Dollar Brows' Brows on Point Micro Pencil to try out and must stay I love the blendable formula, how easy it is to apply, and the precise tip. Highly recommend if you're a brow pencil kind of gal. I'm wearing their Raven color in these photos and think my brows came out fleeky.

Photos by Lauren Adriance.

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Best Fitness Studios for Runners

September 23, 2016

With the marathon coming up and my knees feeling a bit stiff from all the running, I've started to supplement my runs with a few fitness classes (via Classpass of course). It's definitely not normal to run 26.2 miles in one day nor is running on asphalt great for my joints but what can I say - I'm a little crazy.

My days of being a spring chicken are far from over (sigh) so my training runs are followed with stiff knees, tight hips, and a weak core. So it's imperative that any additional workouts improve my balance and flexibility. And if I get a six pack in the progress, then hey, even better!

Classpass (and New York City) boasts of hundreds of classes but only a few types do the job: barre, pilates, and yoga. Occasionally, I'll sign up for a spin or high-intensity class but those are few and far between since additional cardio might overwork my legs and make them more prone to injury.

Barre
It's only recently that I learned women runners will suffer from hip issues compared to men. So it's better to avoid them altogether by taking a class that focuses on strengthening our legs, hips, and inner (deeper?) abs. The stronger these main muscles are the less chance I'll end up with a knee injury. It also can't be denied how similar some of the exercises are to those done in physical therapy. For instance, the tucking in barre class is something I've definitely done with my therapist.

Here are my go-to spots: Pop Physique (cute studios to boot), FlyBarre (accessibility and their Power 45 class is amazing + intense), and Physique 57 (classes are broken up by difficulty level).

Pilates
Similar to barre, pilates increases core strength and helps loosen my hips for a more fluid stride but it's the emphasis on breath control that keeps me coming back. Using my breath with more increased awareness helps on those hilly routes or when I want to increase my pace. Another thing that makes pilates a must for runners is that it helps correct your posture which minimizes a chance of injury.

Here are my go-to spots: Flex Studios (always challenging), New York Pilates (wide range of classes and picturesque studio), and Pilates on the Square (I've always felt welcomed here).

Yoga
Runners are notorious for not stretching. I'm definitely guilty of forgoing deep stretches only to regret it later. Enter yoga. The foundation of these classes is rooted in postures that offer flexibility, stretches, and mental focus. Holding a tough pose also trains the mind for enduring long, hard runs. I try to take a class 1-2x a week depending on how tight my body feels.

Here are my go-to spots: Sky Ting Yoga (amazing space + amenities), Tangerine Hot Power Yoga (classes are small and teachers are so attentive), Y7 Studio (a bit more energetic and music is fresh to death).

I hope this run down inspires you to take a few new classes around the neighborhood. And for those of you not on Classpass, check it out here! It's so easy to add classes to your gym routine and test new studios around the city.

The Babe Bodysuit

September 22, 2016

You guys, I have been dying to style and document this bodysuit for the longest! I took a few photos on my iPhone but it didn't do it justice. So here it is in its full glory :).

I've been obsessed with bodysuits ever since my stint at American Apparel. Now, I know they don't always fit amazing, but when you find the one that does - you stop everything you're doing it and buy it in every color.

One good reason why this top is flooding my drawers is because it's so damn versatile. Throw on bottoms, cute shoes, and strut out that door! And I rarely talk about my dating life on here, but those that deserve a selfie get the selfie they deserve (wink).

Recently, I've been really into these particular bodysuits from Wildfox. They have this amazing high leg cut and the fabric is perfectly thin for the late Indian summer we're having. The styling formula I've been using has been pleather skirts + stan smiths or distressed boyfriend denim + eye-catching shoes (these were under $35).

Another thing I wanted to mention was my experience with Maybelline's FitMe foundation. I've gone through two bottles at this point and am basically a convert. I've never been one to use foundation, drugstore foundation at that, and I fell in love with the outcome.

(FYI, I've always used coverage but BB Creme was more my thing).

In all honesty, I really love the texture, lightness of the formula, and matte finish. It hasn't rubbed off on my clothing either which is my number 1 concern when it comes to all makeup. If you're in the market for a new affordable foundation - try their line first. If you're nervous you won't like it then, buy it from a store with a great return policy - Ulta for instance!

Sunglasses: Nordstroms Bodysuit: Wildfox Jeans: One Teaspoon Clutch: Ora Delphine Rings: Assorted Bracelets: Banana Republic + The Sak Shoes: Ego Lipgloss: Coral Sands via L'Oreal Foundation + Pressed Powder: Both Maybelline's FIT Me!

Before we say goodbye, I wanted to call out today's photographer, Adrianna. She's a fellow blogger who regularly hops behind the camera when she's not in front of it. I'm having fun mixing it up with photographers and experimenting with art direction. Hope you're enjoying the shots too!

Photos by Adrianna Naomi.

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